The Morbidelli T502X, an entry-level adventure bike, has arrived with aspirations to challenge segment staples like the CFMoto Ibex 450 and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. Despite its Italian-sounding name and roots, Morbidelli now operates under the Chinese Qianjiang umbrella, alongside brands like Benelli and Keeway.
The T502X is powered by a 486cc liquid-cooled parallel twin, producing 47 horsepower, and features off-road-ready components: spoked tubeless wheels (19-inch front, 17-inch rear), knobby tires, and a basic suspension setup with inverted forks and a preload-adjustable monoshock.
Is the Morbidelli T502X Adventure Bike for You?
Tech-savvy but minimalist, the T502X boasts dual-channel ABS (with rear deactivation), smartphone connectivity, USB charging, and a large seven-inch TFT display. However, it skips advanced ride modes or traction control, appealing to young riders as an A2-compliant machine in Europe.
Intriguingly, Qianjiang’s penchant for platform-sharing might mean the T502X underpins future models across other brands. Pricing, still under wraps, will be crucial to its success, especially given Chinese manufacturers’ knack for offering value-packed alternatives.
While the T502X seems primed to compete, it raises the question: will riders trust a Chinese-made bike to conquer trails and tarmac alike? With increasing quality from China’s motorcycle industry, the T502X could signal Morbidelli’s steady rise—or simply be another contender in a crowded field.
Learn more at Morbidelli’s website.